China to Ban Hidden Car Handles by 2027, Affecting Tesla

China Mandates Traditional Door Handles on All New Vehicles

China's Ministry of Industry and Information Technology has announced a new regulation that will ban hidden car door handles starting in 2027. This policy mandates that all vehicles must be equipped with both exterior and interior mechanical door handles, citing safety as the primary reason for the change.

Regulatory Shift in the Automotive Market

The decision makes China the first country to officially phase out the retractable handle design, which was popularized by electric vehicle manufacturers such as Tesla and widely adopted by domestic competitors including Xiaomi. The design, which relies on key fobs, mobile phones, or manual pressing to operate, has come under scrutiny due to potential safety risks in emergency situations.

Impact on Automotive Manufacturers

This new technical requirement will force automakers to redesign vehicle models intended for the Chinese market. Companies like Tesla and Xiaomi, who have integrated this feature as a key part of their modern aesthetic, will need to adapt their designs to comply. This regulatory action follows similar safety reviews in other markets, including a defect investigation by the U.S. auto safety agency into Tesla Model 3's emergency door release controls.

Conclusion

The ban on hidden door handles signals a growing focus on vehicle safety regulations in the world's largest auto market. Manufacturers will need to prioritize mechanical reliability over streamlined aesthetics in future designs for China. The market will closely watch how companies adapt their product lines and if other countries follow suit with similar regulations.

FAQ

Q: When does the ban on hidden car door handles in China take effect?
A: The new regulation will be enforced starting in 2027.

Q: Which car companies are most affected by this new rule?
A: Companies that pioneered or widely adopted the design, such as Tesla and Xiaomi, will be directly impacted.

Q: What is the main reason for the ban?
A: The ban is based on safety concerns, ensuring doors can be opened mechanically in emergencies.

Source: Investing.com